When it comes to plumbing issues, one of the less obvious but increasingly common problems involves tree roots infiltrating your pipes. At Paton Bros Plumbing, serving London, St. Thomas, and the surrounding areas, we’ve seen firsthand how tree roots can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. In this blog, we’ll explore why this happens, the signs you should look out for, and how our expert team can help you resolve this issue effectively.

Why Do Tree Roots Invade Pipes?

Hey there! As plumbers, we often get asked why tree roots are such a big problem for pipes. It boils down to this: tree roots are on a relentless search for water and nutrients. Your pipes, particularly those made of older materials like clay, can seem like a goldmine to these roots. They don’t need much of a gap to slip in—any tiny crack or joint in your pipes can become an entryway. Once they’re inside, roots can expand and cause serious blockages and damage.

How to Tell If Tree Roots Are Causing Trouble in Your Pipes

It’s important to catch root issues early to prevent more significant problems down the road. Here are some signs that tree roots might be getting into your pipes:

Frequent Clogs:

If you’re dealing with clogged drains or toilets more often than usual, and it seems to come out of nowhere, roots might be the culprit.

Slow Drains:

Notice that your sinks, bathtubs, or showers are draining slower than they should? That’s a classic sign of a partial blockage, often caused by invasive roots.

Gurgling Noises:

If you hear unusual gurgling sounds coming from your pipes, it’s a good indicator that something’s disrupting the flow, and tree roots could be involved.

Bad Odors:

An unpleasant smell in your home might be another hint that tree roots are causing trouble in your plumbing system. If you spot any of these warning signs, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Give me a call so we can take a look and address the issue before it leads to more extensive—and expensive—repairs.

Sewer Backup:

If you experience backups in your sewer line, tree roots could be causing a significant blockage. See video above showing one of our plumbers clearing tree roots from this customers sewer line.

How Tree Roots Affect Your Plumbing

Tree roots might seem harmless, but they can cause a range of headaches for your plumbing system. Here’s how they can throw a wrench into your pipes:

Blockages:

Tree roots are like nature’s version of a plumber’s worst nightmare. When they invade your pipes, they don’t just hang out—they grow and spread, creating serious blockages. These blockages can restrict or completely halt the flow of water through your pipes. The result? You might experience overflows, backups, or even a full-blown plumbing disaster.

Pipe Damage:

As roots grow, they can exert pressure on the pipes, causing them to crack or break. This damage can result in leaks or complete pipe failure.

Increased Maintenance Costs:

The more root problems you have, the more you’ll end up paying in maintenance and repairs. If roots keep causing issues, you’ll find yourself shelling out more money for frequent fixes and ongoing plumbing work. It’s like a never-ending drain on your wallet.

Preventative Measures to Protect Your Pipes

To fend off these root-related troubles and keep your plumbing in top shape, consider these preventative measures:

Regular Inspections:

Schedule regular plumbing inspections to catch any potential root problems early. Catching issues before they escalate can save you money in the long run.

Pipe Maintenance:

Opt for pipe maintenance solutions such as root growth inhibitors or relining pipes to reduce the risk of root intrusion.

How Paton Bros Plumbing Can Help

At Paton Bros Plumbing, we offer comprehensive services to address and prevent tree root issues in your plumbing system:

Expert Inspection:

Our team uses advanced technology, including camera inspections, to identify root problems and assess the extent of the damage.

Effective Root Removal:

We employ specialized tools and techniques to remove tree roots from your pipes, restoring proper flow and function.

Pipe Repair and Replacement:

If roots have caused significant damage, we can repair or replace affected pipes to ensure long-term reliability.

Tree Placement:

If you’re planting new trees, avoid placing them too close to your plumbing lines. A little planning can save a lot of trouble later.

Contact Us for Professional Plumbing Services

Don’t let tree roots turn your plumbing woes into a full-blown crisis. If you think roots are causing trouble in your pipes, don’t wait for the situation to get worse. Contact Paton Bros Plumbing for fast, professional service.

Call us today at 519-455-4910 or fill out our online form to schedule an inspection or get a free estimate. Trust Paton Bros Plumbing to keep your pipes clear and your plumbing system running smoothly.

Thank you for considering Paton Bros Plumbing. We look forward to helping you with all your plumbing needs!